Ten Years of Search and Rescue in Yosemite National Park: Examining the Past for Future Prevention

A decade-long analysis of search and rescue incidents in Yosemite National Park reveals that 55% of patients were male, with hiking being the most common activity (46%) and extremity pain the primary complaint (53%). Patient surveys indicated that 79% of incidents occurred on clear days, while 14.4% of patients felt underprepared. Most respondents believed appropriate footwear and sufficient water could have prevented or minimized injuries. Surprisingly, 54% reported being experts at their activity, suggesting a need for targeted education on gear, trail conditions, and patient demographics to reduce future incidents.

Boore, S. M., & Bock, D. (2013). Ten Years of Search and Rescue in Yosemite National Park: Examining the Past for Future Prevention. Wilderness & Environmental Medicine, 24(1), 2–7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wem.2012.09.001